Sterrekopje

OVERVIEW:

Sterrekopje is a spell-bindingly beautiful, holistic retreat in the foothills of South Africa’s Franschhoek mountains, where most of the activities take place on the farm itself. It’s named after a nearby mountain peak, and the word ‘Sterrekopje’ roughly translates to ‘Hill of Stars’. A stay here offers quite the transformative experience, so much so that guests rarely want to leave! This is a back-to-nature sanctuary amidst vineyards and orchards, and the enchanting natural setting inspires complete detachment from the outside world and a creative, nourishing lifestyle. This is the place to come for healing, therapeutic treatments, wonderful food, yoga, and soulful activities such as pottery and baking. The peaceful accommodations are scattered across the 50-hectare farm, where everything has been designed to nurture restful sleep and deep relaxation. Rates are full board and include accommodation, all meals and beverages, spa treatments, daily group activities, a laundry service, and a mini-bar.

ACCESS & LOCATION: 

Sterrekopje is located on the outskirts of Franschhoek in South Africa’s Cape Winelands. Guests fly into Cape Town International Airport – from there, it’s approximately 1 hour by car.

ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT STERREKOPJE: 

Referred to by Sterrekopje as sanctuaries, eleven individually styled rooms are spread throughout the estate between the main house and various heritage buildings, designed to promote deep rest and regeneration. Exuding sophistication without being garish or over-embellished, the interior design favours hand-painted murals, rich colours and fabrics, antique furniture, and statement wallpaper. No two rooms are alike, and each comes with its own delightful touches, including a fireplace, an outdoor bathroom, a cosy reading snug, and a plant-filled terrace. The so-called Intimate Sanctuary rooms are located in the main house, and feature a deep soaking tub and a private terrace overlooking the gardens. Six slightly larger Abundant Sanctuaries are located between the main house and gardens and include terraces and living areas. Finally, the highest-level rooms are the Rejuvenating Suites, which offer a lovely living room and an elaborate spa-like bathroom. Every detail has been considered, including a choice of natural linens or Egyptian cotton, daily fire-lighting and bath-drawing service, and in-room massage on request.

The Old Farmhouse is the heartbeat of the estate and a treasure trove of activity, from the orangery and library to the inviting farm-style kitchen with its big family table and the mouth-watering bakery. The orangery is a greenhouse-style space where guests can relax, read a book, or enjoy afternoon tea. Throughout the enchanting, fragranced gardens, secret nooks and crannies provide plenty of spaces to relax and soak up the surroundings. Food is a major part of the Sterrekopje experience, with farm-to-table dining being an intrinsic part of the ethos and the daily harvesting of the homegrown fruits and vegetables. The owners are proud of their ever-growing collection of edible plants and fungi, with more than sixty indigenous and heritage varieties to choose from. A team of highly qualified holistic practitioners offers a range of restorative treatments and exercise classes, including reflexology, massages, sound baths, private yoga classes, hot–cold immersion, reiki, and hypnotherapy. 

ACTIVITIES AT STERREKOPJE:

Unlike other hotels in the Cape Winelands, Sterrekopje’s activities take place mainly on the farm, with a programme of holistic treatments and wellness activities tailored to each guest and their length of stay.

• Farm ‘rituals’

  – Daily farm ‘rituals’ are included as part of the guest experience at Sterrekopje. These centre on curated spa and wellness treatments by highly trained therapists in the beautiful bathhouse and surrounding areas. They include massage, sound baths, reflexology, hot–cold immersion, and hypnotherapy.

• Farm ‘rhythms’

  – Guests are also invited to participate in the farm’s daily ‘rhythms’, which range from baking and harvesting to yoga, qigong, ceramics, and guided hikes or activities around the farm and the gardens.

• Independent activities

  – For those looking to explore and enjoy the farm independently, bicycles are available, numerous hikes start from the property, guests can enjoy paddle boards and kayaks on the lake, and wild swimming is encouraged! 

• Franschhoek visits

  – If you can tear yourself away from the beauty of the farm (most don’t want to!), Franschhoek is only a short drive or taxi ride away, with its array of restaurants, boutique shops, and galleries. The region’s famed wineries and vineyards are also easily accessible.